Marrakech has a backdrop of stunning Desert, tall mountains, and rough coastlines that are filled with waterfalls that roar as well as beautiful Berber villages, and even ski resorts. Don’t miss your chance to discover these areas.
Marrakech is an ideal location to explore. If the bustle of the city becomes to much for you, it’s the perfect time to get out and explore the countryside surrounding. There are the Atlas Mountains just an hour away from Marrakech and the coastline just two hours away, and the Desert’s edge within five hours from Marrakech, the choice of day excursions is vast. Here is our selection of the top.
Ourika Valley
If you feel that the heat in Marrakech is too much, residents tend to travel toward in the Ourika Valley, where temperatures are cooler, and lunch by the river is on the menu. Go upwards to reach Setti Fatma waterfalls. Setti Fatma waterfalls to enjoy some of the cool air (young men and boys might attempt to help but make sure you’re on the right track) before choosing a rock to sit on and take in the view and the sounds of the waterfalls roaring.
Oukaimeden
It’s not easy to imagine, however with less than two hours from Marrakech and you could be having a snowball contest. The resort for skiing in Oukaimeden located 43 km (27mi) south of Ourika is a popular destination for snow from the months of December and April. It also gets consistent powder from January to March. The resort itself is simple although the ski passes are a steal and you’ll be able to have the slopes all for yourself. In the rest of the year this area is an ideal place for rock climbers.
Imlil
In Toubkal National Park, this is the place to start for trekkers who are trying to climb Mount Toubkal. Although there’s not anything to do or see in the town in the village itself, with the exception of a few cafes along the road and tourist shops Imlil is a fantastic location to begin a quick hike into one village. If you’ve heard of the murders of two foreign females by religious extremists in the area, be sure you’re in good hands. Moroccan government has tightened its the security measures in this small and friendly village that was stunned by the violence. All hikers now have to register with the village and hire an expert guide in order to ascend Toubkal. Local guides are recommended for those who want to explore the region on shorter hikes and discover more about Berber tradition. After you’ve finished and satisfied, enjoy the local food and espresso-strength green tea that’s laced by sugar (ask for “atay bla skar” to avoid any teeth.)
Ouirgane Valley
The charming valley is a bit away from the tourist trail with its soft rolling hills, dotted with olive trees, and the close Atlas Mountains towering in the background. The pace is slow and there are Berber villages scattered across the slopes. On Saturdays, you can visit the market every week in Asni while traveling the locals gather from villages around to buy everything from fruits and vegetables to meats clothes, household items and much more.
Tin Mal Mosque
A further 40 kilometers (25mi) to the south of Ouirgane is the Tin Mal Mosque. It was built in 1153 and was partially renovated in the 1990s . It is among the two Mosques in Morocco accessible to non-Muslims other than Fridays, where it is used to conduct prayers. It is set against the breathtaking backdrop of the valley. The mosque offers an ideal place to take in the beauty and architecture of the Almohad empire, which was founded in the mountains, and eventually came to control Morocco and a large portion of Spain.
Essaouira
This laid-back, whitewashed town along the Atlantic Coast is a perfect escape when the hum of Marrakech is excessive. If you’re up for an adventure take a trip on an early bus (it’s approximately two and a half hours) and give the kitesurf or surf lessons while browsing the souks in search of Moroccan goods, but without the haggling and stress that you would in Marrakech medina. Have a cup of coffee at the famous Place Moulay Hassan or the famous Patisserie Driss. Enjoy a stroll along the beach when the sun goes down, and enjoy fresh seafood that is sold in the bustling fish market when the many fishing boats return to the shore. If you don’t want to you can let someone else take care of the job for you, and book tours.
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Ouzoud Waterfalls
In The High Atlas Mountains, Ouzoud Waterfalls is always awe-inspiring. Start your journey from the highest point of the falls from where you can look at the edge and observe the numerous sources that form the spectacular waterfalls. Follow the trail down to enjoy views of the mighty water until you arrive at the lower basin, from where the views are stunning and refreshing. You can even get closer to water falls by taking a kayak ride through the water.
Ait Benhaddou
It is situated on the edge located on the edge of the Sahara Desert, Ait Benhaddou is a fortified kasbah that became famous for its setting for blockbuster films like Gladiator (2000), Lawrence of Arabia (1962), and many others. The river is crossed to walk through the town in which the locals are slowly returning to their homes built of mud. Be sure to stop to take in the breathtaking view of the lush palm trees and the sandcastle-like kasbahs when you get up to the highest point. If you’re able then you can head back to Ouarzazate to see more film-related attractions including The Museum of Cinema and the stunning, but decrepit film sets in the Atlas Corporation Studios (featuring a replica of an Egyptian temple) and CLA Studios, which both provide tours.
Agafay Desert
Geologically referred to as a desert made of stone, this Agafay Desert, just 40 minutes away from Marrakech is an absolute must-see. There are no other things to see more than stones for miles and then the landscape transforms to include oases and valleys with palm trees, and an impressive view of the High Atlas Mountains in the background. A day trip to this area is an ideal alternative for those who do not have the time to travel to Sahara Desert. Sahara Desert.